Contracts Officer

Oxford Brookes University - Research, Innovation and Enterprise Directorate

Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward-thinking institution rooted in, and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised University focused on providing high-quality teaching, delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research.”

In acknowledgment of our commitment to gender equality and progression, we proudly hold the Athena SWAN Bronze award, a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Join us at Oxford Brookes University, where every step forward is a leap toward a brighter tomorrow.

The Directorate of Research, Innovation and Enterprise is recruiting for a Contracts Officer to join the Post Award team. Working within the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Enterprise, based at our Headington campus and reporting to the Contracts Manager and Post-Award Team Lead, the Contracts Officer will be responsible for drafting, reviewing and negotiating research and consultancy agreements as well as other contracts. The Contracts Officer will be working closely with the Contracts Manager and Post-Award Team Lead.

This is a full-time post, but a fractional post of 0.6fte or above will be considered.

The role is part of the Post-Award Team which is responsible for a portfolio of research, consultancy and knowledge exchange projects. The Team is responsible for post-award processes including: drafting up, reviewing and negotiating awards and contracts, processing contracts and post-award financial processes. The Team liaises with key academics, finance and research managers as well as key internal and external stakeholders, universities and other research and sponsoring organisations abroad, nationally and locally.

What will I be doing?

• Preparing and negotiating terms and conditions of contracts within an agreed remit
• Coordinating and project managing cases to achieve their timely and successful completion
• Ensuring research and related agreements are in compliance with the University’s financial and other regulations and have been appropriately authorised
• Liaising with and advising colleagues on the negotiation of the terms of sponsored research, including intellectual property rights, use of research results and contractual obligations.

What skills do I need?

• Good communication and organization skills
• To be able to multi-task and prioritise work accordingly
• Experience of working in an administration department would be advantageous, but not essential
• To have a degree or equivalent (a Law Degree or Law qualification (certificate in law)) is essential or relevant experience.

Based at our Headington campus, you’ll experience the vibrant campus atmosphere and benefit from our modern office environment. The campus is one mile from the centre of Oxford and is served by regular public transport. This role will be hybrid and is likely to require 1 day on campus per week.

At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.